Canton Offers Elderly Enriched Housing Service

By PAUL MITCHELL

CANTON - One of Canton's best kept secrets lies within the confines of 35 and 37 Riverside Drive.

Since 1983, Canton Enriched Housing has provided assistance to people with semi-special needs.

"We provide additional services to allow people to live independent lives," stated Susan L. Cushman, Canton Enriched Housing administrator. "We have a number of resident aides who assist our residents with laundry, cleaning, meals and personal care."

The Enriched Program was created through state grant money obtained by then Canton Housing Authority Director Diane Burns. The Housing Authority subsidized the Enriched Housing program until 2008 when they gained not-for-profit status.

Enriched Housing currently has eight vacancies, offering efficiency, handicapped and one-bedroom apartments.

Residential services are offered from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Supportive services include help with meals, housekeeping, case management, assistance with medications and transportation to medical and dental appointments, and coordinated activities.

"We are hoping people realize we are here and that these apartments are available." stated Bernard R. Wells, director, Canton Housing Authority. "For these people to be on their own with a little assistance is a big thing."

"It can be considered long-term care. People come in to the program and stay with us until a higher level of care is needed," Ms. Cushman explained. "Residents really enjoy their independence while getting assistance, and it's great for family and loved ones."

To be eligible, a person must meet Canton Housing Authority requirements, be 55 years of age or older, or disabled and in need of assistance with Activities of Daily Living.

The Enriched Housing program, noted Ms. Cushman, is licensed by the New York State Department of Health. The state has approved Enriched Housing for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) residents who qualify for help. Persons not eligible for SSI pay from their own private funds.

"This program ultimately reaches out and works hand in hand with people in need. That's something that brings Enriched Housing to the forefront," Mr. Wells remarked.

For more information, contact the Canton Enriched Housing Program, Inc., 37 Riverside Drive, Canton, N.Y. 13617, call 386-8830 or email ehp@twcny.rr.com